Positive and Negative Trends in Global Piracy
According to the International Maritime Bureau’s Piracy Reporting Centre (IMB PRC), global piracy and armed robbery incidents decreased by 3% in 2024 compared to 2023, marking a cautiously optimistic trend. However, a closer examination reveals several disquieting patterns.
Somali Piracy Resurgence
For the first time since 2017, Somali pirate activity sparked alarm in early 2024. Nine incidents, including four hijackings, were reported in the Western Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden between December 2023 and May 2024. These events occurred at significant distances from the Somali coastline, indicating that these pirates remain strategically capable and versatile. However, no further pirate incidents were reported in the region after May 2024.
Gulf of Guinea: Reduced Incidents, Continued Threat
In the Gulf of Guinea, piracy incidents remained at historically low levels in 2024. Unfortunately, crew kidnappings continued to pose a serious threat, with all such incidents originating from this region in 2024.
Americas: Improved but Noteworthy
The pirate threat in the Americas was minimal in 2024, with only two incidents reported. Notably, no incidents were recorded in Peru’s notorious Callao Anchorage for the first time since 2016. However, vessels should maintain vigilance in other hotspots like Brazil, Ecuador, and Venezuela.
East Asia: Increased Concerns
The South China Sea and Singapore Strait experienced a rise in piracy incidents, with the latter recording 61 incidents in 2024 compared to 58 in 2023 and 55 in 2022. Bulk carriers were the most frequent targets, and the Strait waters near Pulau Cula, Indonesia in the Philip Channel remain a high-risk area.
Violence Against Crews
The use of violence against crew members is on the rise. In 2024, the number of crew members affected by piracy doubled from the previous year, with 151 victims. The IMB PRC also noted an increase in weapon use, with 65 incidents involving firearms or knives reported in 2024, compared to 55 in 2023.
Regional Breakdown: Asia
The ReCAAP ISC reported 107 incidents in Asian waters in 2024, up slightly from 101 in 2023. Most incidents were armed robbery/petty theft, with the Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS) continuing to pose significant threats. Bangladesh’s anchorages saw a concerning increase in incidents, with the highest number in a decade recorded in January 2025.
Regional Breakdown: Africa
The African region saw 26 piracy incidents in 2024, the same as in 2023. West African waters remain the primary concern, accounting for 70% of all African incidents. The Indian Ocean High-Risk Area was removed after several years without incidents, but Somali pirates still pose a capability threat, with eight incidents reported between December 2023 and May 2024.
Preventive Measures
Given the variability and persistence of piracy threats across different regions, vessels must prioritize safety and preparedness. Key steps include:
- Obtain updated information from local sources and security experts.
- Review and update the ship security plan.
- Conduct a voyage-specific risk assessment.
- Brief and train the crew accordingly.
- Test emergency communication plans.
Adopting industry best practices can mitigate risks significantly in piracy-prone areas.
The ongoing battle against maritime piracy requires continuous vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines. The recent trends highlight both improving and worsening scenarios across major shipping routes.
Stay informed and prepared. Your safety at sea depends on it.
Stay alert!
The shifting tides of global maritime safety necessitate proactive measures. Know your risks and be prepared for any scenario.
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